Tuesday, November 22, 2011

we must always give thanks for what we have ~

This Year has proven to be one of great change for me. This summer I was diagnosed with
SEVERE RETINOPAT DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA
and as a result I have lost 30% of my vision.
Basically I do not have proper blood flow to my eyes causing swelling to the back of my eyeballs, altering my field of vision and causing me to view things darker.


I have to visit my doctor bi-weekly for eye injections to help control the swelling This treatment will not repair my eyes and it will be necessary for me to continually have these treatments in hopes that I will not lose any more eye sight.



I have been a real mess emotionally over the last few months. But for now my vision has stabilized so I am trying to be thankful for the sight that I do have. I have somehow found peace within myself as there is nothing I can do to change this condition so I have chosen to accept it and move forward.



I have been creatively challenged as things that were once easy for me are now hard as my hand/eye coordination is very off due to the new way that I see things. my life has changed and so has my creative process, in the winter issue of sew somerset I share how to nurture your creativity and how to connect to your creative self.


We all have challenges and things we have no control over in our life's but we must never forget that its our choice on how we let them define us ~





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46 comments:

moi said...

Sorry to hear about this challenge in your life Ruth. I pray that you continue to find the strength to deal with it. You are amazing and your words so true. Thank you for sharing your story and thank you for sharing your creativity and the positive light you have shed on such a difficult situation.

Tammy said...

Oh Ruth, I am so sorry about your eyes, but you are right in having such a beautiful attitude. When both my kids were diagnosed with autism, I really dispaired for a while...then I picked myself up, and try everyday to make the best and the most of what is. Thank you for your beautiful art, and book. You have brought such joy to me over the last few years.:o) {{hugs}} and prayers for a miracle!

Lori Anderson said...

I'm sorry to hear about this. I'm losing my vision as well from psuedotumor cerebri and I'm having to find new ways to deal with things. I've got an ear if you want to bend it!

Unknown said...

My heart goes out to you.

Joanne Huffman said...

I'm really very sorry to hear this. You're showing a great deal of grace and strength. Sending prayers and positive thoughts.

Anonymous said...

May you find strength and grace along the new and unexpected path you have found yourself on...

Kirsten said...

You are always an inspiration even in times that must be so difficult for you.

howmyartbeats.blogspot.com said...

Hello Ruth: I lift you up in prayer for a complete healing, God is a God of miracles so i'm asking for one for you.
I have been inspired so often when reading your blog and have incorporated word sewing in some of my art work. Was taught to sew by my mama and this just seemed to be a natural extension.
We don't live too far apart, I live in Ontario. So you feel like a fellow artist friend to me even though we have not met.
Hugs and a positive attitude your way, Sidney...

Sandy said...

Ruth,

Praying for restoration and stabilization of your vision. You are an amazing and inspiring artist and I can only imagine that this difficulty will enhance your art with deeper expression and meaning. Thank you for sharing your journey.

sandee said...

Ruth...sending you warm, positive, strong hugs.

LuLu Kellogg said...

I am sorry you are having to deal with this challenge but really admire your spirit in adapting to the change. You have always been an inspiration to me and will continue to be.

Sending Love Your Way,
LuLu Kellogg

kecia deveney said...

you are such a brave girl to go through those shots. just know that I am always here to hold your hand. i'll guide you whenever you need it! i love the pieces you created. the pinks and yellows are exquisite and tell of the beauty within.

love you!

kecia

Elizabeth said...

Oh Chica!! my heart goes out to you a nd sending big hugs to you!! You are one tough cookie and you can keep after this. have you looked into holistic stuff and nutritional issues as well?? I am sure that you have.

We do all have our challenges and they overwhelm us at times- You can do this and do it well. LOve your new article can't wait to get my hadns on it!!! Sending lots of love and hugs, Peace and strength!!!

Lesley V. said...

Ruth, I am so sorry that you are having to deal with this diagnosis. Your ability to accept, adapt and be grateful truly just re-emphasizes the very things that drew me to you and your artistic creations long ago. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Our God is an awesome God and he will take care of you.
xo,
Lesley

Marva Plummer-Bruno said...

Oh I'm so sorry, that must be really hard being an artist! Your positive attitude will do wonders though. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Cathy Spivey Mendola said...

so sorry for your health issues. As an artist, your eyesight is such a valuable tool it must be hard. Although it sounds as though you are dealing with it beautifully-art truly does heal us emotionally & mentally. I hope the progression of your disease is halted with these treatments.
Sending you happy thoughts!

Debbie said...

Ruth, I love ya and send out to you all my good vibes.

You are such and amazing artist, but even more importantly your a great person, you make me smile.

I saw your work in Somerset, wow it is great, proud to be published with you.

Be strong, keep up the fight you can do it, your stronger than you think.

Debbie
xoxo

Kim Caldwell said...

Thinking of you sweet friend. You are strong and can get through anything. I am always here for you. . .

xo

Kim

Holly Loves Art said...

Dear Ruth,
I popped in to say hello and wish you a very happy Thanksgiving. I am just shocked to read this news. I'm so sorry that you're going through this and I'm sending you love and light.

I am awe of your amazing talent and your latest pieces are just breathtaking. Beautiful, just like you.

All my very best,
Holly

lisa said...

just wanted to say I love you and lets get together soon -I have tried so hard to deal with the phrase... All is a Gift-maybe its to give us an opportunity to tell you how much you mean to us all-you are very special!

Laura from Italy said...

Dear Ruth, I'm so sorry to read this. You have to know that you are one of my mythos. I went to Houston this year and whe I received classes' catalog I was so excited to read about your classes and I immediatly booked two of them and rusted some nails too!
On the very first day what a disappointment, no trace of you! I had a very nice class with Tracy and Lyn Huskamp, but they were not you. To tell the truth I was aa little bit hangry with you too. Now that I know the matter of your non attendance I fell even a little bit guilty. I send you a lot of hugs and Ciao from Italy

Jean said...

Ruth, we were so thrilled to have you in Ct this year at A-I-Y, you are so strong, courageous and an inspiration to us all. Many Blessings, continued success,
Jean & Amy R.

Suzanne said...

I'm so very sorry to hear this. Your positive attitude is an inspiration to us all and will no doubt serve you well while you go through treatments to keep it in check. Many blessings to you and your family this holiday season! (PS - both of those pieces of art are beautiful!!)

Colleen said...

Ruth, I am thinking of you and sending prayers your way. So sorry that you have to deal with this and I hope that the thoughts and prayers of friends and family help you stay strong. xox Colleen

pamelahuntington said...

Sending you love and big hugs Ruth...
xox

pam

Karen Cole said...

Thinking of you and sending as much positive energy as possible. Sight is such a gift. I have dealt with some issues of my own and am so sorry that you have had a difficult time.

-Karen

Surfk9s@msn.com said...

You are so special and one talented lady. You will be in my thoughts always. Just know that your positive attitude is what will help you through. Much love sent your way. If you ever just need an ear just give me a call I am here for you...

NANCY LEFKO said...

Ruth, you are handling your situation with grace and courage; you are an inspiration. Sending healing thoughts, love and positive energy to you and wishing you a lifetime of creativity!

TAMMIE MOORE said...

Oh dear Ruth, I can't imagine what a challenge you have been going thru. Know that I'm lifting you up in prayer girl, and for a total restoration of sight,God can do anything. Anyways if you ever need someone to talk to or even get together for a play date some time, give me a hollar.
You are in my thoughts and prayers
Tammie Moore
mooretreasures@verizon.net

Jennifer Jackson Taylor said...

Hi Ruth,
So sorry to hear about your vision. I loved the article your wrote for Sew Somerset, straight from the heart and so pure and honest. Sending positive thoughts your way.

Jenn

Diana said...

Oh, Ruth.. I had no idea you were struggling with this problem. My heart is heavy thinking about you. I can only imagine the anguish you have been experiencing. Sending you hugs and energy....I wish I could do more.
Diana

mairedodd said...

i am so very sorry to hear of this for you - and am in awe of your grace and bravery... the lighter colors speak to me of delicate strength and deep beauty within... the light that beams from you and into your work is evident... sending you healing thoughts and warmth to envelope you when you feel lonely or sad... yes, we do always have something to be grateful for in our lives - and we choose how to deal with things that happen... you lead with silent power by example, how lucky are we to know you in your work... and what an incredible example of the best in humanity your are to your children...

shelley said...

my heart is with you...i do relate...i'm recovering from a truamtic brain injury and my vision was very much effected...in my recovery process i've come to believe that my attitude is everything or not...i choose everything...just as you have...my friend...play well...

Thistle Cove Farm said...

Your sight is affected but your vision is still clear and know you're being tucked into prayer.

Heather Jacob said...

oh Ruth.. the only road to take is acceptance .... so difficult when this type of thing happens .. I too am facing eye problems .. I have chosen to have acupuncture in preference to an op ... the membrane has come away from my retina causing darkness and distortion.. the acupuncture is keeping it stable ... all the best to you and remember there are miracles happening every day ... sending you healing light ... hugz x
I believe in Miracles ...

Gayle said...

First of all I want to say I hope Your sight continues to stablize,
and also that I have no doubt that even if it didn't you would continue to find some way to make beautiful things. Thanks for sharing.

Danita Art said...

Hi Ruth. I wanted to thank you for this year ornament. It is a treasure, after all you´ve been through. And I also wanted to let you know that you´re an inspiration and a true artist. Thanks so much.

Wendy Brightbill said...

first of all, let me just say that i feel like we must be kindred spirits. i love using stitching in my mixed media artwork. that being said, what a difficult thing to face as an artist. i have no idea how challenging that must be to loose part of your sight. i think it is so amazing that you have continued to pursue art and your passion in the midst of that. that shows real guts!!! blessings... wendy

nancy laboz said...

ruth, may you find peace and continued strength in the new year. you are truly an inspiration to all of us. perhaps your art will take on a new and fresh direction as you begin to see things differently. xo from your friends at parcel.

Talking Horses Arts said...

New to your blog, i am so sorry to hear about your eyes. Wishing you all the best and strength a person can wish you!
Bought your book btw yesterday and that's why i wanted to come to your blog and say..AWESOME!!!Thank you for being such a sharing and inspiring person,
BIG HUG,
Andrea.

charmsbylois said...

Thank goodness you are able to get some treatment for your eyes and I am hoping that things stay on an even keel. It is hard in difficult times to remember that a God does not close a door that he also opens a window. Praying for your health. Lois

Julie Pishny said...

These sacrifices we have to make in life are so hard to accept, almost impossible. Your attitude is seems to sum up your strength and represents you so well. You are in our hearts and prayers as you have touched us all in meaningful ways. I look forward to new creations from your studio in the coming year, because you can't keep a brilliant girl down. Blessings to you and yours.- Julie Pishny

Julie Pishny said...

These sacrifices we have to make in life are so hard to accept, almost impossible. Your attitude is seems to sum up your strength and represents you so well. You are in our hearts and prayers as you have touched us all in meaningful ways. I look forward to new creations from your studio in the coming year, because you can't keep a brilliant girl down. Blessings to you and yours.- Julie Pishny

Cherie Wilson said...

Dear sweet girl~ your inner and outer beauty will never be limited to only what you see. Looks like you get that.......... sounds easier said than done, I know. Thank you for sharing your beauty.......oh my goodness it just pours out into your work! I Love all I have seen published lately. Enjoy your special journey. I'm On one of my own more difficult ones right now. Deep calls to deep! Merry Christmas and a year full of blessings to you brave artist!

Dianne Adams said...

Ruth...I love your work; it is such an inspiration. Sending prayers your way.

Jennifer Dixon said...

Ruth,
I am so sorry about your eye problems. I admire your courage and gratitude for what you do have. You are such an amazing artist and you have so inspired me over the years. The beauty of your work and soul is like no other. Please know you are in my prayers and your attitude and art will continue to be a huge inspiration for me! I look at my art heart you made me last Valentine's Day and think of you every day! I hope you have had a blessed Christmas and have a very happy new year! :)

Jennifer